Making espresso at home without an espresso machine is achievable and budget-friendly through the use of a moka pot. Andrea Allen, co-founder of Onyx Coffee Lab and an acclaimed barista, emphasizes the importance of water quality and grind consistency for optimal coffee extraction with a moka pot. Water should ideally be filtered or distilled with added minerals to enhance the coffee's flavor profile. As for the coffee grounds, a medium-fine grind is recommended to avoid clogging the moka pot, while ensuring a rich, full-bodied espresso. Regular cleaning of the moka pot is also crucial for maintaining flavor quality. Allen also suggests using a burr grinder to achieve consistent grind size, which significantly contributes to the consistency and taste of the coffee.
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